What is CBG

By this point you’re probably familiar with CBD, but what is CBG? The difference between CBD and CBG comes down to more than just a letter, though both are non-intoxicating compounds cultivated from cannabis. To break it all down, we’ve put together a quick explainer on CBG, including the advantages of using CBD and CBG together. Here’s what to know.

CBD vs. CBG: The Basics

Let’s start with the biggest differences of CBD vs. CBG. CBG, or cannabigerol, is one of the lesser-known cannabinoids, likely since most hemp strains don’t produce a whole lot of it. But for all its rarity, it’s actually incredibly important. CBG is often called the “mother cannabinoid,” since it is instrumental in the early growth of the industrial hemp plant. As the plant matures, CBG converts into various acids—including CBDA, which eventually turns into CBD.

Because CBG isn’t as readily available as CBD upon final cultivation (harvested industrial hemp plants tend to contain less than 1% of CBG), it hasn’t quite gone mainstream yet in the way that CBD has. But, that doesn’t mean this compound can’t offer a ton of benefits. Today, researchers are discovering new ways to cultivate more CBG out of plants, and in the future, it might be just as popular as its CBD cousin.

CBG Benefits

Just like with CBD, we still have a lot to learn about the benefits of CBG. That being said, early research looks quite promising.

CBG works in pretty profound ways on the endocannabinoid system, particularly on receptors CB1 and CB2, which are located throughout the body and brain. There is already strong support that it could be beneficial in treating glaucoma, treating neurodegenerative illnesses like Huntington’s Disease, and inhibiting the growth of colorectal cancer cells. It’s also naturally antibacterial, and shows promise in the treatment of certain bacterial infections.

The growing importance of CBG hints at a future where we can mix and match cannabinoids to produce highly safe, effective, and natural medicines. So, while we’re still learning, there’s reason to be hopeful about this unique compound.

CBD vs CBG for Pain

The effects of CBG are similar to CBD in that while it’s psychoactive (meaning it works on your brain), it doesn’t induce feelings of being “high.” In terms of pain management, however, CBG offers nearly all of the benefits provided by CBD, with a little extra strength. CBG not only contains antibacterial properties, but it can act as an anti-inflammatory to reduce bouts of discomfort throughout the body. However, CBG for pain relief can help in relieving nerve discomfort such as shooting, stinging, and stabbing pain, whereas CBD is generally used for minor soreness, tenderness, and muscle aching. It also boasts digestive health benefits, including relief from stomach pains along with appetite stimulation.

CBD vs CBG for Anxiety

When analyzing CBD vs CBG for anxiety, the effects of CBG are very similar to CBD. CBG for anxiety also serves to ease physical feelings of nervousness such as the “fight or flight” sensation, tenseness, restlessness, sweating, fidgeting, and trembling. Where CBD can calm nerves, induce sleep, and relax muscles, CBG does that plus calms other types of anxiety manifestations. 

CBG Strains

First discovered in 1964 by two Israeli scientists, there are various CBG strains in existence. However, benefits can be maximized by taking both CBD and CBG strains at the same time. For starters, you get the individual benefits that both offer, such as possible relief from joint and muscle pain, stress, and anxiety. You may also achieve an “entourage effect,” which means that in addition to experiencing benefits of both compounds, those benefits are actually enhanced. And since both CBD and CBG have no notable side effects, it’s considered safe to combine them.

Want to Try CBG?

At MyHealthEtc., we’re driven to bring you the best CBD and CBD-related products on the market, including safe and effective CBG oil. Discover the CBG/CBD Oil Blend or pure CBG Oil from Made By Hemp (coming soon!), and experience a greater range of benefits.

Have more questions about CBG? We’re always here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our products, or the science behind our various CBD and CBG strains.